Ts Issue10 Cannabissip Digital

A SPECIAL-INTEREST PUBLICATION: A LOOK INTO CANNABIS INNOVATION IN ONTARIO
Cannabis
SPRING 2021
thesparkmagazine.ca
CONTENTS
SPRING 2021
12
SPECIAL FEATURE
Cannabis Innovators
We’re Watching
There are plenty of incredible stories to tell when it comes to cannabis
innovation in this province and across the country. We chose 12 companies
that are killing it in all things weed, starting on page 50.
EVERYTHING YOU WANTED

TO KNOW ABOUT CANNABIS BUT
WERE AFRAID TO ASK
Unfamiliar with all things
cannabis, our writer set out to
answer some of her questions
THE POT BOOM
18
— and yours.
What cannabis is doing for DOCTOR’S ORDERS
Ontario’s economy, and how it Why medical cannabis is the
12
can help post-COVID. saving grace for millions of
24
patients across the country.
Photo credit (top): iStock/Yarygin
B THE SPARK SIP // WINTER

SPECIAL // SPRING
20202021
ON THE
COVER
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION CREDIT
Melanie Marler with photos
from iStock/Morrison1977,
iStock/Nastco and illustrations
by iStock/Natasha_Pankina
HIGHER EDUCATION
Cannabis-related courses two
Ontario colleges are offering
40
students.
BAKED WITH LOVE

Cannabis cookies are on
the menu at Ottawa-based
32
Slow Ride Bakery.
THE CANNABIS CHURCH

THAT IS KELLY’S GREEN LOUNGE
Kelly Addison is on a mission
Introducing EconoRoute
to spread the good word about TM
36
cannabis.
by iApotheca Healthcare
Specialized software for Pharmacy and

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1-800-209-6052
contact@iapotheca.com
THE SPARK SPECIAL // SPRING 2021 3

TRANSFORM A TELE-MEDICINE CALL INTO
A TRUE VIRTUAL CLINIC.
“ALL CANNABIS IS
SPRING 2021
PUBLISHER
Kristina Svana
MEDICAL
CONTENT DIRECTOR & EDITORIAL CONSULTANT
Lisa van de Geyn
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Melanie Marler
SENIOR WRITER
CANNABIS
Melissa Nowakowski
WRITER
Kailee Somers
SENIOR DESIGNER
Sunday Lek
RESEARCHER
Martha Beach
ADVERTISING & CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

AND EVERYONE
WHO USES
Frank Auddino
CANNABIS USES
CONTRIBUTORS
KAILEE SOMERS
As an event specialist, Kailee leads the planning and exe-
IT FOR A
cution of TechEx, Durham Region’s Startup Grind, AVIN and
represents Spark Centre at community events. In her spare
time, Kailee loves to hike, camp and is an avid thrifter.
MEDICAL
SUNDAY LEK
Sunday is responsible for keeping the Spark Centre brand con-
sistent across all print and digital channels. With her 20 years
of design experience in news media, she designs and maintains
REASON
all of Spark Centre’s websites and domains, and assists with the
design and production of The Spark magazine.
ABOUT THE SPARK
The Spark is Spark Centre’s quarterly publication centred around

the incredible technology and innovation happening across
Ontario. We feature businesspeople, entrepreneurs and inno- WHETHER THEY
“
KNOW IT OR NOT.
vators, leaders and companies doing incredible things in the
worlds of tech and innovation. If you have a story you think fits
The Spark’s editorial mandate, please email content director
Lisa van de Geyn at lisa@lisavandegeyn.com.
THE SPARK
2 Simcoe Street South – Suite 300
Oshawa, ON L1H 8C1 KEN SOBEL
905.432.3999 | sparkcentre.org
CANNABIS ATTORNEY & ADVOCATE
ADVERTISING & EDITORIAL INQUIRIES
marketing@sparkcentre.org
4 THE SPARK SPECIAL // SPRING 2021 THE SPARK SPECIAL // SPRING 2021 5
a letter from our
INVEST. VER. PUBLISHER

BUILD. RECO
TOGETHER.
Hello readers!
It’s spring 2021 and I’m feeling following day. After educating myself
overjoyed by the anticipation of nicer on the benefits of THC for sleep, I was
weather. If we are going to contin- able to make an informed decision on
ue to be in our homes, let’s open which edibles would be right for me.
up some windows, breathe in that So, on those particularly restless week-
fresh spring air and indulge in our end nights when I find I cannot sleep,
latest issue on cannabis. a gummy will help my mind relax enough
We are now into year two of a to get some solid rest.
pandemic that has, among other things, But don’t just take it from me —
increased stress and anxiety around I encourage you to read about Véronique
the world. If you caught our winter edition Lettre (page 24) and her incredibly
of The Spark Business & Innovation inspiring personal journey with medicinal
Magazine about pivoting in the pandem- cannabis. And as you read on, please
ic, we focused on the positive outcomes have an open mind and let us guide you
Ontario's Angels make a from doctors and innovators across through cannabis education, medicinal
positive impact on their Ontario who were adapting and navigat- benefits and the incredible innovation
ing their way through COVID-19 for the happening in this budding industry.
communities and the future
NTARIO'S
betterment of health in our communities. Pun very much intended.
of their local economy.
F O
Much like our Winter 2020 issue, Now, I would be remiss if I didn’t
If you are looking to be
TO
I wanted our team to focus on the positive end this note with a disclaimer; just like
involved and apply your exper-
as it pertains to the cannabis industry. anything else, cannabis can be abused.
tise to Ontario's innovation
Through education and innovation, we The Spark team is not trying to encour-
economy's recovery, please
REC
R
are doing our part to help break down age anyone to try cannabis, we are simply
visit angelinvestorsontario.ca/
BE A PA
the stigma and replace it with real human trying to promote a healthy understand-
recover OVERY experiences. That being said, I have ing about what this legal medicinal
VISIT
recently started using cannabis. It’s an plant is, and to help break the stigma.
admission I’ve kept to myself for fear Happy reading!
ANGELINVESTORSONTARIO.CA/ RECOVER
of being negatively labelled. But I’m
TO FIND OUT HOW here to tell you that it has had a positive
IN
GET
impact on my life, my mental health and
VOLVED TOD
my creativity.
AY
I suffer from light-sleeper syndrome,

which is a playful term I’ve coined.
If a pin drops at 2 a.m., rest assured
Photo credit: Rachel Wittenberg.
I will hear it. I was waking up on aver-

KRISTINA SVANA
age three to four times a night, which
Publisher
wreaked havoc on my productivity the
/RECOVER
LISA VAN DE GEYN
Content Director
& Editorial Consultant
Proudly serving Durham Region
cultivating my knowledge of while others are into the development of
CANNABIS
cannabinoid beauty products (CBD2.0,
page 54). There are super-cool cannabis
accessories (BRNT, page 65), medical
cannabis producers (Tilray, page 56)
and even a piece on how cannabis can
I’ll just come out and say it. It’s proba- when Frank Auddino, our circulation whiz
benefit your four-legged family members.
(Grey Wolf Animal Health, page 60).
icarevirtual.com 1-855-icare33
bly a bit embarrassing, considering I’m and advertising salesperson extraordin- For someone who didn’t really know
not a twenty- or even thirtysomething naire, introduced us to Wayne Cockburn anything about cannabis, I learned so
anymore, but I really don’t know anything (the president of Pathway Health and much working on these pages. I under-
about cannabis. (There. I admitted it.) our consultant on this issue), we knew stand the difference between indica
It was never something I got into; it we were onto something exciting. The and sativa, for example (“Everything You
wasn’t an area of interest. Sure, I’ve had stories in our Up Front section are Wanted to Know About Cannabis But
friends who’ve been known to smoke diverse but have one common tie — they Were Afraid to Ask, page 18), I see the The iCare Virtual Care Clinic provides comprehensive
the occasional joint or eat the occa- explain the good cannabis has done for value in cannabis for patients (“Doctor’s
sional gummy, but it’s never piqued my the economy, patients, students and Orders,” page 24) and I even learned family medicine via e-visits using a connected Electronic
curiosity. That is, until, The Spark team innovators. That brings me to the second that universities and colleges across the
decided to dedicate an entire issue of
our magazine to the miracle plant.
half of the magazine. Last issue, we
dedicated our pages to celebrating 24
province are developing courses to help
students shine in the cannabis sector
Health Record (EHR).
When we were conceptualizing this Ontario-based companies that pivoted (“Higher Education,” page 40). I might
issue, it was tough to know where to during COVID. (If you haven’t seen this not be ready to smoke, vape or pop a
start — there’s just so much to research issue, please go to thesparkmagazine. gummy, but at least I feel more educated
Photo credit: Janelle Gokule Images; Makeup: Camille Holder.
to read and cover when it comes to can- ca at your earliest convenience. It’s a on the merits of this plant. I hope you will This is especially useful for unattached and high-needs
nabis. We knew we couldn’t do it all, but read that will leave you feeling invigorat- too after reading this issue.
we also knew we wanted a well-rounded
issue that would touch on education,
ed and proud to be an Ontarian.) This
time around, we decided to applaud See you next time,
patients that may not have regular access to a family physician.
culture, opportunties in the field and, 12 brilliant companies and founders
of course, the medical side of the who are doing incredible things in the
story. The development of our editorial world of cannabis. Some specialize in
lineup was born out of groupwork on our cannabis when it comes to chronic-pain
Tuesday morning Zoom meetings. And management (Pathway Health, page 52)
Powered by Health Espresso Electronic Health Record (EHR)
Up Front
Find out what cannabis-industry insiders told us about
the incomparable plant, then meet 12 innovative businesses
making impressive strides in the cannabis space.
12 THE POT BOOM

What is cannabis doing for Ontario’s economy? The experts say
legalization can do nothing but help our post-COVID economy thrive.
24 DOCTOR’S ORDERS
Why medical cannabis is the saving grace for millions of patients
in Canada, and how to speak to your doctor about getting it.
40 HIGHER EDUCATION
Here’s what two colleges in Ontario are doing when it
comes to developing courses related to cannabis.
Photo credit: iStock/Sarah Pender
What is cannabis
doing for Ontario’s
economy and
what’s the growth
potential? The
experts say
legalization can do
nothing but help
our post-COVID
economy thrive.
THE
BY MELISSA
NOWAKOWSKI
POT BOOM
I
t’s now been just over two years since
Canada legalized cannabis — the first
major developed nation and the second
country in the world to do so. At the time
of legalization in 2018, there were many
unknowns, including whether the cannabis
economy and, more importantly, how.
When cannabis was legalized in Canada,
there were certainly a few hiccups. This brand
new industry had no existing framework, nor
a similar one after which to model itself. A
custom infrastructure made up of new policies
market would positively impact Canada’s and regulations had to be developed to sup-
port it, and there was constrained supply
at the onset, which limited the number
of retail stores that could launch the in-
dustry in a big way. Despite the evolving
environments, the cannabis industry facilities for purchase and an eagerness points, maturing product offerings and a
grew quickly with 75 million grams of to connect industry players with the larger consumer base have all contrib-
cannabis sold through the Ontario Can- municipality and other sources. For LPs, uted to consistent growth despite the
nabis Store (OCS) between April 2019 this pathway was very enticing and the current operating environments.
and September 2020. As the kinks in industry within Durham Region boomed. The largest change to come with
regulations, policies and supplies were Canopy Growth Corporation, for exam- the pandemic was a pivot from cannabis
worked out, the industry began ple, had put their stake in the ground in once being prohibited two years ago,
to flourish. Bowmanville seven years ago, and over to being considered an essential service
Despite the pan-

Ontario quickly became a hotbed for the years, the business grew within the by the government today. Because of
licensed producers (LPs). Peter Graham, region. Others, like Starseed, moved this, Graham says the cannabis industry
demic, cannabis
managing director of investment banking their operations into existing buildings in has had a much easier time compared
with Echelon Wealth Partners, which Durham. Canopy and Starseed’s choice with other industries. “LPs already
stores have been

works with public and private companies in growing their business out of Durham had stringent SOPs and cleanliness
in the cannabis industry by providing Region laid the groundwork for welcom- procedures in place, so they were well-
popping up in
advisory services for raising capital, ing more investments in the industry. equipped to handle the efforts required
mergers and acquisitions and more, says Pricing and product also played a during the pandemic,” he says. “Also,
the province like

this steady growth in the province can role. In the latest quarter of available retailers who were forced to shut their
be attributed to Ontario having a strong data provided by the OCS, dried flower doors while in the several lockdowns
weeds. In 2020,
talent base and greater access to capital made up 60 percent of sales volume Ontario has experienced, have been able
pools. Plus, the province is one of the over other forms between July and Sep- to utilize technology to allow for curbside
largest cannabis markets in Canada. tember 2020, and the OCS has worked pick-up and delivery — many of them
He’s right. According to a spokesperson
with the office of the Ministry of Finance
with LPs across the nation to create a
broad catalogue of products with 1,120
Ontario saw 200 instituting these efforts within a few
days once permitted.”
and an Insights Publication released by
the OCS, in the short period from July to
unique SKUs available as of September
of last year. Also, in response to market
stores compared to In fact, despite the pandemic,
cannabis stores have been popping up
September 2020, Ontario’s share of rec-
reational cannabis sales was the highest
feedback, the median dried flower price
dropped by 25 percent between April
the 50 or so stores in the province like weeds. In 2020,
Ontario saw approximately 200 stores
in the country at nearly 29 percent.
Other factors contributed to this
2018 and March 2020, drawing profit-
ability away from the illegal market. that existed in 2019. compared to the 50 or so stores that
existed in 2019. This increase in access
speedy growth as well, such as willing Like all industries however, the can- points has been enthusiastically wel-
host communities. The Municipality of nabis industry felt the impact of the comed, given the increase in cannabis
Durham, specifically Clarington, became pandemic in 2020. For communities like consumption during the pandemic. The
the flagship of the host community in Clarington, COVID-19 threw a wrench number of consumers choosing legal
Ontario. While other municipalities had in the security and momentum of many cannabis is driving this need for much
challenges with overcoming the stigma projects. Due to fluctuations in the broader access across Ontario. So much
Photo credit: (previous page) iStock/msk.nina; (this page) iStock/Zenkyphoto

of cannabis and accepting the industry investor-reliant market and investors so that at the beginning of September
with open arms, Clarington laid out the lacking confidence in it, many projects 2020, the government of Ontario had
welcome mat, creating a clear pathway stalled, and businesses had to restruc- directed the Alcohol and Gaming Com-
through an abundance of service land, ture, make cuts to pave way for prof- mission of Ontario to double its licensing
itability and realign their strategy. As pace from five cannabis retail store
Canopy’s facility in Bowmanville was one authorizations per week to 10 per week.
of its smallest, it was shuttered, as was This is anticipated to enlarge by the
Starseed’s facility with the difficult deci- next quarter.
sion to combine the Bowmanville cultiva- With the addition of retail stores in
tion facility with their Aurora location. Ontario, at a pace of 80 per month in
All that said, Ontario’s cannabis
industry is far from doom and gloom.
A change in strategy, increased access
December 2020, compared with 20 a The big companies
month back in September, comes job BAY STREET FIRM
creation. “Until we hit a saturation point are re-strategizing
with both the LPs and retailers, we will outdoor agricultural land and facilities.
continue to see growth, albeit slowing Consumer preferences are also to keep their foot-
until that saturation point, unless new changing, and product offerings have
regulation changes are introduced for matured to assist the industry in keeping hold in the market,
which opens
places like consumption lounges,” its footing. Businesses like Cannapiece
says Graham. plan to use their upcoming mass-
opportunities
For areas like Clarington, where cultivation facility in Clarington to harvest
Bringing boutique
the pandemic seemingly hit hard, there product and then ship it to their Pick-
remains the potential for job creation ering facility to make topicals, edibles,
through secondary services that heavily beverages and more, expanding choice
for small-scale
consulting management
support the cannabis industry — plumb- for cannabis consumers. OCS continues
ers, lighting technicians, packaging and
even research and development — which
to work with LPs to broaden its cannabis
catalogue beyond dried flower to include
cultivators.
to global entrepreneurs
can bolster the growth of the cannabis vapes, pre-rolls, seeds and more. Gra-
ecosystem through the supply chain. The ham says that as the industry matures,
increase in access points and product we will see it resemble more traditional
availability is creating promise for the industries, in which groups are less verti-
industry amidst the pandemic, but so cally integrated and specialist companies
is a change in strategy. Bonnie Wright- evolve in certain parts of the value chain. ucts, the economy is expected to thrive
man, manager of business development “We have already seen it with extractors, year over year. Continued support for
with the Clarington Board of Trade and and we expect more specialization like existing and new LPs — from regions like
Office of Economic Development, sees manufacturing of different product types Clarington — is also key to the continued
a changing mindset from “growth at all to follow soon.” success of the cannabis industry, with
start up visa advisory
cost” to a more focused approach, which Adam Jeronimo, business develop- its affordable land for cultivation and services such as
is steering Durham Region’s cannabis ment lead with the Clarington Board of construction of new facilities, as well as market validation
economy back into a promising direction. Trade and Office of Economic Develop- assistance with secondary services and Holding a joint Master of Business Administration and Juris
“The big companies are re-strategizing to ment, says we will soon see secondary direct connections to a variety of sourc-
Doctoral degree in law from the University of Toronto, and a
keep their foothold in the market, which markets for cannabis evolve. He antic- es within the municipality.
opens opportunities for small-scale culti- ipates that the hemp plant could be a Will we ever see a decline within the certificate in investment banking from Australia’s Investment
vators,” she says. Small-patch cultivators strong contender for being a secondary cannabis industry? Not in its contribu- business development Banking Institute Business School, her academic abilities
are on the rise, with lesser production market. “Clarington has a lot of agricul- tion to Ontario’s economy. The stigma for international and linguistic proficiencies afford outstanding analytic insight,
in smaller units rather than large-scale ture and farmers in the community who of cannabis use, however, is beginning
entrepreneurs to a sophisticated international business clientele conversant
cultivation. Wrightman has heard may consider putting hemp into their to flatline, driving both curiosity and in English, Spanish, Farsi, or Armenian.
increased interest in micro-licenses for crop rotation in the future,” he says. consumption among Ontarians — adding
smaller spaces like greenhouses and “They can still extract CBD, as well as to Ontario’s economy boost. “I think Mana Hosseini is well respected in the Start-up Visa sector and
farmhouses. Companies like Cannapiece use the entire plant, whether through the stigma surrounding cannabis is
affiliated with a number of accomplished immigration lawyers.
Corporation currently have a site plan for processing or manufacturing, to make becoming less and less pronounced. diligence reports
phased-development in Clarington for a other products such as clothing, food We have seen increased discussions
for both local and As the founder and chief executive officer of Bay Street Firm,
mass-cultivation facility where investors and ‘hempcrete,’ which is more durable in mainstream media about cannabis,
international startups LLC & Startupvisa.com, Mana uses her rare multi-linguistic
can invest in individual rooms, which than concrete. Car manufacturers are increased medical and legalization
are managed by Cannapiece but belong even considering using hemp to make programs globally and it even became
ability to skillfully navigate in diverse global markets.
to the investor. Wrightman also pre- car doors.” an election topic during the 2020 US
Located in downtown Toronto, Bay Street Firm was inspired
dicts that there may be a shift from LPs While the economy may appear presidential election,” Graham says.
after Wall Street was founded in 2017. The boutique management
occupying several-thousand-square-foot on the outside to have slowed down in “I think that the availability of brick-and- angel fund/seed
facilities for cultivation to utilizing more Ontario, the reality is quite the opposite. mortar stores is helping to reduce un- consulting firm caters to high-profile immigration law firms and
With an increasing consumer base, new knowns about cannabis for the average
vc investing in both related professionals who seek upstanding business consulting
strategies and an expansion of prod- non-cannabis consumer, as they can local and interna- expertise for their clients.
now find a clean, open and engaging en- tional startups
vironment to learn about marijuana.”
baystreetfirm.com
Everything You Wanted to
Know About
CANNABIS But Were Afraid to Ask
BY LISA VAN DE GEYN
Unfamiliar with pretty much the entire cannabis space,

our writer set out to answer some of her questions (and yours) about the basics.
You can take this as your starter’s guide to understanding cannabis.
Parietal Lobe
C A NN A BIN O ID S
THC and CBD are cannabinoids. Figure 241.
They’re a group of related chemical
compounds found in cannabis plants
that — when consumed — make our
brain receptors cause mental and
physical effects.
Frontal Lobe
Photo credit: (left) iStock/Tetiana Lazunova, iStock/paseven; (right) iStock/Vladi333

Temporal Lobe
Occipital
Brain Stem Lobe
Cerebellum
Anxiety
Indica vs. Sativa CBD

Cannabidiol (or CBD) is an active cannabinoid in cannabis. This is the
cannabinoid that doesn’t produce the same “head high” — it doesn’t
affect the brain’s receptors in the same way THC does. It does,
however, increase the endocannabinoids that are found in the
body. It goes to the body’s receptors that are associated
with anxiety, pain and inflammation, and has been shown
to help with paediatric epilepsy. Oils, edibles and topi-
cals are the most common forms of CBD. The World
Health Organization has gone on record saying CBD
has no public health risks or potential for abuse.
Figure 242. Figure 243. Inflammation
INDI C A S AT I VA
Indica is a bushy plant that sprouts wide leaves. It generally Sativa grows taller than indica and has narrow, wiry light-green
Pain
grows faster and has more flowers than sativa plants. Most leaves. Sativa strains are often used when folks want to have Figure 244.
people think of Indica strains as sense-based and often sedat- a good time with friends. It is more cerebral and energizing, and
ing — the cannabis you’d take if you were looking to unwind. can be used to encourage creativity. Effects are generally an
Common effects are relaxation and sleepiness. uplifting, energetic feeling — it has been described as euphoric. C B D O IL
You’ll most commonly find CBD oil as a liquid extract in
bottles with a dropper in the lid. It can be mixed in food
COMMON INDICA STR AINS C O M M O N S AT I VA S T R A I N S
or drink, or you can put drops under the tongue (which
Bubba Kush Strawberry Cough
allows it to absorb faster than putting it in food). The oil
Northern Lights Sour Diesel
is most often used for symptoms associated with anxiety
Grape Ape Super Lemon Haze
and stress, pain and insomnia.
CBD TOPICALS
Photo credit: (left) iStock/Tetiana Lazunova; (top right) iStock/mstroz, (bottom right) iStock/Alhontess
H Y B R ID S You use these the same way you would a lotion or other topical cream. There are many forms, including balms, sprays, creams and
gels. Oil-based lotions absorb deeply and water-based absorbs faster. Use topicals for localized pain and inflammation.
The truth is, most strains aren’t either indica or sativa — they’re actually hybrids.
Strains have been crossbred for ages, and it’s likely that cannabis labelled “indica” will
also have properties of sativa in it. Common positive effects from hybrids are creativity, C B D E DIB L E S
energy and relaxation, for example. (It depends on the parent strain — if there’s more Food and drinks infused with cannabis are called “edibles.” Prepackaged edibles are legal in Canada,
indica, you’re likely to get a more relaxed feeling instead of more energetic.) as are homemade infusions. Word has it you get a different high when cannabinoids are absorbed
Note: There can be negative effects from all strains. These effects do pass, but can through the stomach (as opposed to the bloodstream). You know the most common ones already —
be overwhelming. Not everyone will enjoy cannabis. magic brownies anyone? — but it’s not just baked goods anymore. Pretty much any recipe can incor-
porate cannabis through things like oils and butters. Here’s the thing about edibles, though: Dosing
COMMON HYBRID STR AINS can be tough. It takes time to set in, so rookies might feel the need to eat more than they should.
OG Kush You should pay careful attention to dosing and the length of time it takes to be activated in your body
White Widow (some take up to two hours). The other thing to know is that the effect of edibles can last longer than
Blue Dream Figure 245. cannabis that’s vaped or smoked — it can often last four to 12 hours, or longer.
Ready to take your business to the next level
THC
with the right financial information?
Figure 246.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (or THC) is what you consume if you’re The complete finance
looking for that energetic and creative high (that is, more
psychoactive effects). Your behaviour and mood are definitely team that grows with
altered when ingesting THC. It sends dopamine to the brain
(there’s the energy) and is nearly identical to anandamide, which your business.
is a chemical in the brain that works as a neurotransmitter and
sends messages throughout the nervous system. It affects the SERVICES WE OFFER:
brain’s centre of thought, pleasure and other regions. Too much of 4 Strategic CFO Financial Guidance to navigate your financial needs
it can really kill that high (you could have a not-so-fun experi- 4 Backoffice Services to manage bookkeeping and taxes
ence), so most experts advise starting at a low percentage 4 Cloud-Based Technology Tools to help you keep track of everything
of THC and take it slow in a comfortable place with a
relatively good mindset. To BOOK A COACHING CALL
visit financewithoutbordersinc.com
VA P E P EN S
These convenient and discreet devices allow
you to smoke cannabis without rolling a Finance Without Borders. 905-967-0777
joint. Cannabis needs to be heated between No Borders. No Limits. financewithoutbordersinc.com
325 to 465 degrees Fahrenheit in order for
it to activate cannabinoids and terpenes.
Vape pens do this incredibly quickly with
no trouble at all; you simply press a button
to activate. Pens are made up of a battery,
mouthpiece, cartridge or tank, atomizer and
power button.
T E R P ENE S
Be the person you needed
These are the essential oils of a plant, and they give cannabis it’s robust aromas and flavours. There’s some research that
shows terpenes can have an impact on our mental and physical well-being. Examples of terpenes are linalool, which has a
floral scent and is said to help with anxiety and depression; alpha- and beta-pinene, which has a pine scent and it can help with
25 years ago
inflammation and pain; myrcene, which smells like cloves and musk and has anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties; and
limonene, which is found in lemons and can relieve stress and help digestion. This is the approach that resonates with our angel investors. They understand
raising capital is hard for entrepreneurs, and not only that but founders need
S T O R IN G C A NN A BI S Figure 247. help beyond a cheque. They need a soundboard, connections and mentorship.
So how long does cannabis last? There’s no expiration date but it can
We find win-win scenarios for entrepreneurs and investors wanting to make a
generally be stored from six months to a year before it loses taste and
return by investing in innovative, highly-scalable, early-stage startups.
Photo credit: (top) iStock/Campwillowlake; (bottom) iStock/geraria
potency. The good news is, if you happen to find a joint that’s been stored
in a cool, dark place, it’s probably still worth using. Store your cannabis in
mason jars or similar containers out of the sunlight. (Vacuum sealing will
keep oxygen out.) Whatever you do, don’t stick it in the fridge or freezer
— it ruins the flavour and you could get mildew growth. Plastic bags and
containers are also a no-no. Edibles, oils and topicals should be stored
according to package or bottle directions and used by the expiration date.
sparkangels.ca
DOCTOR’S
Medical cannabis is the saving grace
for millions of patients across the
ORDERS
country. Here’s what you need to know
about what it does and how you should
speak to your doctor about getting it.
BY LISA VAN DE GEYN
V éronique Lettre hadn’t considered
taking medicinal cannabis for any-
thing before she got sick. It was 2009
she says. “But somehow, I knew deep
down there was more to medical cannabis,
so I persisted and continued my search
and she had just been diagnosed with until I found the right products and dosage.
multiform glioblastoma — a very aggres- And it changed my life. I replaced all my
sive brain cancer. The then-36-year-old, pain medication with CBD oil. I literally felt
with two young kids at home, underwent no more pain with a high dosage of CBD.
brain surgery, followed by 30 radiother- And I used a small dosage of THC oil to
apy appointments and a full year of che- replace my sleep pills. I haven’t touched
motherapy. “I suffered many side effects another pain medication, sleeping pill or
and had to take multiple pills every day anti-anxiety medication since that day.”
— me, who had never been sick before,” Lettre wasn’t finished. She was a con-
she remembers. Medical cannabis was vert. To continue learning about cannabis,
legal in Canada 12 years ago, but only she took a master class with a chef in Los
prescribed in palliative care situations, Angeles and learned about cannabis cook-
which fortunately wasn’t Lettre’s destiny. ing. Later, she accomplished an incredible
“Still, I started to read about it, looking feat. “My mission was to demystify medical
“This time, I was determined to use

cannabis to relieve the pain caused
by surgery, and to reduce anxiety and
improve sleep.”
Lows to the Current High. While there’s
for a more natural alternative to replace cannabis, so I wrote the first nobody old enough today to remember
some of the medication. I was amazed French book in Quebec the mid-1800s to early 1900s, when
by everything I learned and discovered, in 2018 about it. This cannabis was used medicinally all the
but, unfortunately, I couldn’t get access has led me to give many time, says Dr. Kimmins, “there was a blip
to it,” she says. She eventually recov- lectures across Quebec and in the history of cannabis over the last
ered from her brain cancer. even France.” She didn’t stop 80 to 100 years — there’s been a stigma.
Five years later, in 2014, Lettre was there. “I soon realized that, nurses who serve more than 2,000 This was a highly established medicine.
shocked to learn she now had breast to facilitate access to medical patients in five locations. (Last Sep- Had prohibition not occurred, we’d all
cancer. Once again, she had surgery cannabis to people who needed it, tember, Nature Médic joined The Clinic just see cannabis as another medicine
and 30 radiotherapy treatments, but I had to start a clinic. But not any clinic — Network Canada — now Pathway Health that’s used for health and wellness.”
no chemotherapy. “This time, I was the clinic I wish I had when I first started — to continue its growth.)
determined to use cannabis to relieve using medical cannabis products: A real Common uses
the pain caused by surgery, and to
reduce anxiety and improve sleep.” At
the time, Lettre says it was hard to find
medical clinic where the patients would
get access to French-speaking doctors, a
customized treatment plan and support
M edical cannabis isn’t new — using
cannabis for health-related issues
is thousands and thousands of years old.
“People think of cannabis as a drug to
get high, but that’s recreational can-
nabis. The goal of medical cannabis is
a doctor who would prescribe medical from health professionals who have “There’s written evidence from ancient to get rid of symptoms without impair-
cannabis — there were few in Quebec. knowledge of medical cannabis through- civilizations using cannabis as medicine. ment,” he says. The most common
“After months of research, I finally found out their journey,” she says. Nature Médic It has been super important to human use for medicinal cannabis in Canada
a doctor. But once I got my prescription, was born in January 2018 with Lettre serv- beings for most of our human history,” — without question — is for chronic
I had absolutely no clue what to use or ing as general director. The clinic started says Dr. Mark Kimmins, a physician in pain. Dr. Kimmins says pain is by far the
buy. I randomly tried different products, out with one part-time doctor and a nurse. Courtenay, BC, and the author of Medi- biggest reason why so many people turn
causing some very bad experiences,” Today, there’s a team of 15 doctors and cal Cannabis in Canada: From Historical to cannabis — whether it’s for arthritic
How long it takes to feel the effects of
“Trained medical
cannabis depends on how it is taken.
For example, it will take longer to feel
the effects of cannabis baked in magic
professionals are needed to brownies than it would if you were to
inhale it while smoking.
guide you in the right direction.”
Should I try it?
Don’t go rogue and try to treat your-
self; you really need to speak with your
Home Oxygen PAP Therapy

knees, low back pain or migraines, most medicine for a very long time.” doctor first. And the good news, says Dr.
are using cannabis to get relief of aches Dr. Kimmins says cannabis is a Kimmins, is we’re increasingly going to
and discomfort. The second reason is plant with a history of efficacious use. see physicians who are more versed or
anxiety and depression, and the third is “It has a safety profile that’s unparal- trained in cannabis. “There’s a reason
Providing Quality Community Respiratory Care Since 1995 sleep disturbances. “You can see how
these things tie together,” he says. “If
leled to other medications. Most of the
medications we use today have danger-
you need to see a doctor who specializ-
es in it. You need a medical document
you have chronic pain, you’re more likely ous toxicity when used in large amounts, — it’s like a prescription that gives you
to be anxious or depressed, and you’re but not cannabis — it has a remarkable authorization to use medical cannabis
probably not sleeping very well.” Other safety profile. For instance, cannabis has sold from licensed producers in Canada,”
proven areas of relief include nausea no known deaths from overdose. When he says. If you don’t speak to an expert
and vomiting from chemotherapy, relief used efficiently under the guidance of a first, Dr. Kimmins offers this comparison:
of spasticity and pain in multiple sclero- healthcare provider, it has minimal side “Imagine a patient going into a pharmacy
sis, and the relief of symptoms associ- effects. Plus, another benefit is patients and wading through the shelves trying
ated with palliative care, especially as it have been able to come off other medi- to figure out which product to use and
relates to cancer. CBD has even proved cations when they use cannabis.” the pharmacist isn’t allowed to help him.
Illustration credit (entire article): iStock/wildpixel

effective in reducing epileptic seizures in That’s the case in recreational dispen-
drug-resistant pediatric cases of epilep- How it’s used saries across the country. Salespeople
sy. It’s a muscle relaxant and has been There are lots of ways to use medical are prohibited to provide medical or
shown to lessen tremors in patients with cannabis — it depends on what you’re health-related advice. Recreational
Parkinson’s disease. “The problem with comfortable with. Some people choose cannabis is sold like recreational alcohol
cannabis is that people think of it as a to smoke it as a dried plant or brew — to produce some form of intoxication.
brand new medicine and don’t acknowl- it into their tea or food, while others Trained medical professionals are need-
edge that it has been an established use it topically or inhale it as a vapour. ed to guide you in the right direction.”
SE E K E X P E R T A D V I C E
If your doctor doesn’t have experience in medical cannabis and you’re interested in seeing if it’s for you,
Dr. Kimmins says it’s key to go in with the facts and get educated. “It’s a doctor’s job to guide the patient to make
the best decision for them, based on analysis of risks and benefits. Come prepared and broach the topic as you
would with any other medication. Have the conversation with your doctor and ask how experienced they are with
cannabis.” What’s more, don’t feel embarrassed — be open and honest with your expectations. If they’re not
experienced with cannabis, ask if they’d be comfortable with you having a consultation with a physician who uses
cannabis to treat patients. “Because we lack precise dosing and other information, working with a doctor who’s
engaged in your progress — while you’re keeping a journal to document your experience — will certainly help you
find the product that’s right for you.”
Monday to Friday: 8:00am-4:00pm 1414 King St E Courtice
Saturday: 8:00am-12:00pm 905-721-4800
and 1:30pm-4:00pm 1-877-466-4253 THE SPARK SPECIAL // SPRING 2021 29
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BAKED
with love Affordable and delicious
cannabis cookies are
and cookies to self-medicate. Fifteen years later, Slow Ride
Bakery was born from the Dhawans’ desire to help other peo-
ple who could benefit from cannabis by incorporating Karen’s
love for baking with Vik’s business savvy.
on the menu at this Prior to legalization, Vik had helped Health Canada set up
their backend software, and worked with Canopy Growth, a
Ottawa-based couple’s
cannabis corporation, during their early stages. They had been
(unofficially but consensually) testing batches of cookies on
business. Here’s the

Vik’s colleagues for years and knew what worked. During this
time, Karen was dismayed by the number of people mentioning
story behind Slow Ride

they hadn’t had home-baked cookies in years and wanted to
get her quality cookies out to Canadians. “I’m not shying away
from the fact that we are going to be using corn syrup, butter
Bakery’s entrance into and shortening in our cookies, because that’s what grandma
used to have in her pantry and that’s just what tastes the best!
the cannabis space. You’re not buying a double-chocolate cookie for health benefits.
If you’re going to indulge in some THC, indulge in some tasty
fats at the same time,” she says.
The Dhawans looked at the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS),
BY KAILEE SOMERS
and saw opportunity. There were plenty of edibles in the form
of gummies and chocolate, but when it came to baked goods,
there was only a single cookie on the market — a two-pack that
A multi-billion-dollar industry on the rise, cannabis can be

a hugely competitive and intimidating industry to navigate.
That said, Karen and Vik Dhawan from Ottawa are coming
retails for around $15. Vik says they’re hoping to sell theirs for
under $4. “We want to be competitive with Starbucks — that’s
our benchmark.”
out on top. The husband-and-wife dream duo are uniquely Their 1,200-square-foot manufacturing facility is up
poised to be one of the first on the market with their craft against some cannabis enterprise giants, but the couple see
cannabis cookies. the strength in their small size. “We’re only two people, but
For Karen, February 2021 marked the 20-year anniversary we’re also cannabis users. We understand what the consumer
of a horrific car accident that damaged her spinal cord and left wants because we’re consumers too, and that’s not necessar-
her with chronic pain. After years on various opioids, she found ily true for some companies. With quite a few large compa-
herself depressed and drained. Her pain specialist pleaded nies out there, it seems as though some don’t have a lot of
with her to try medical cannabis. Having never experimented respect for the consumer and they’re not in the business for
previously, Karen was hesitant, but it was Vik who dispelled her them,” says Karen. “I think the Canadian cannabis consumer
fears and the pair have never looked back. is aware of that, and I think COVID-19 has probably brought
Through extensive research, Karen learned how to properly that even more to the forefront. The average consumer wants
use cannabis to treat her pain through topicals, oils, distillates to help out the smaller businesses; they want to be there for
and decarboxylation. She began making cannabis granola bars their neighbour.”
THE NEXT
EVOLUTION
“
B eing owned and not backed by big investors, the road to mar-
ket has been long and arduous. As Karen says, “you have to
have everything built up and ready to go before Health Canada
will issue you anything.” Understandably, Vik says, “nothing
Electromagnetic Spectrum Lighting

beats the feeling of getting our Health Canada license. It was ba-
sically two years culmination, and the months in between where
you’re just waiting to hear back. It can get to you. So that sense
We understand what the
of relief — I can’t define it.” consumer wants because we’re
Photo credit: (previous page) iStock/bulatovic; (this page left cookie) iStock/Candy_Vandy; (this page right cookie) iStock/etiennevoss
It took the couple six months to find a bank that was willing
Electromagnetic spectrum lighting utilizes a unique blend
to work with a cannabis company, which held up securing a consumers too, and that’s
of invisible and deep penetrating short and long infrared LOW POWER REQUIREMENTS PER LIGHT lease and attaining articles of incorporation. In the summer of
wavelengths that excite molecular activity. (60 watts – 1/6th the power of typical full 2019, they were hours away from signing a lease when they not necessarily true for some
were notified that the City of Ottawa had issued a new zoning
spectrum grow lights) by-law for cannabis production and suddenly, they were back to companies.”
The EMS wavelength energy penetrates through the entire the drawing board. They ended up securing their location in
leaf canopy and through the root structure, promoting rapid 24-HOUR CYCLES AND November 2019 and have held the lease while waiting for the
healthy growth, thicker stems and more bud production. NO SPECTRUM MANAGEMENT final go-ahead. As parents of two, they have had their share of
trials amid late nights working at the bakery and COVID- will hire three to five staff to help fulfill orders. Other provinc-
induced homeschooling. es have been willing to discuss deals while they wait, so their
EMS energy eliminates the dehydration factor, increases Those challenges aside, the couple has also faced scrutiny cookies may be available in other parts of Canada initially.
density and photosynthetic activity without increasing the for their career choice. “The stigma is still out there,” says Expansion is on the horizon and the Dhawans have plenty
Karen. “Honestly, starting this cannabis business was almost of delicious products in mind, including an array of spreads in
transpiration levels. a coming out for us. We still need to remind our family some- single-serve packets including chocolate-hazelnut, peanut but-
times that we are a regular business.” ter, cinnamon and maple. They aim to keep prices low so their
Positive effects of EMS lighting allow for more plants per sq. The wait continues. Their business was issued their products can be fun add-ons for retail workers to offer at point
Health Canada license in January, and at the time of writing, of purchase. The Dhawans clearly have big plans for the future.
ft. without shading issues or canopy crowding.
Indoor Farming Evolved was undergoing the required 60-day period before receiving As Karen says, “we just really hope we’re going to be given the
their final sales amendment. During this time, the product is opportunity to continuously handmake our cookies with love
Originally developed for human health applications, foodsecuritystructures.ca
sent in for testing and review. Once approved, the facility is and get them out to Canadians as much as we can. That’s our
expecting orders in the tens of thousands each month and main goal.”
EMS lighting provides a 100% safe environment for lizette@foodsecuritystructures.ca
employees to work, without skin and eye protection. 613-877-4714
THE SPARK SPECIAL // SPRING 2021 35
church
The cannabis
BY KAILEE SOMERS
Kelly Addison is on a mission to spread

the good word about cannabis.
R everend Kelly Addison wants to spread the er imagined becoming a minister, but after opening
that is
love and knowledge of all things cannabis. the lounge, she says the community showed up.
She’s so passionate about it that she left her “They sort of just came and the lounge built itself
job as a teacher, cashed in her RRSPs, took all around what seemed like a church.” Kelly became
Kelly’s Green Lounge

of her savings and opened a cannabis lounge. ordained, developed the religion and applied to
As someone who suffers from complex Vital Statistics Canada.
post-traumatic stress disorder, Addison says She is hopeful they will soon be recognized as the
cannabis saved her life. “I’m hoping, moving for- only cannabis church in Canada.
ward, that I will be able to teach people how to save their As with many businesses this past year, the physical
lives,” she says. After recognizing its medicinal and therapeutic event space is on hold, but a wide range of items, along with
properties, she wanted to learn more about cannabis and com- membership and subscription boxes, are still offered online.
pleted a wide variety of courses, including earning a Science of “We’re not a dispensary, we’re not licensed and we don’t sell it,
Cannabis diploma from Hamilton, Ont.’s McMaster University. but literally anything else to do with cannabis, we’ve got it,” she
The launch of the KGL brand began with pop-ups and develop- says. Fortunately, their transition to online has been extremely
ing her online presence. Before long, events were being sold successful and interest continues to grow in the KGLTV chan-
out, her cannabis community grew and she knew it was time to nel, podcasts and cannabis how-tos.
open her own place. Addison’s mission is clear: “I believe that if we allow it,
Located on Main Street in Orono, Ont., Kelly’s Green cannabis and hemp will save our planet.” With no intention of
Photo credit: Jeff Buchanan Photography Lounge was brimming with patrons prior to COVID-19. The slowing down, the year ahead involves implementing consistent
cannabis-friendly establishment always had something on, programming for the KGLTV channel, along with the production
whether it was comedy, crafts, karaoke, poetry, music, bingo or of a web series and offering cannabis weddings. “Kelly’s Green
their Homeostasis Hippie course. The separate nonprofit Can- Lounge is connecting the entire cannabis community coast to
nabis Church of KGL, which runs in partnership with the lounge, coast,” says Addison. “That’s what we want to do. We are not
has deep roots in the metaphysical and regular offerings in this for dollars and cents. We’re doing this because our mes-
include crystals, Reiki healing and taro and tea leaf readings. sage is cannabis love and spirituality, healing and wellbeing
Religion may not have been in the cards, and Addison nev- should be talked about and should be shared.”
BY LISA VAN DE GEYN
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DUR H A M C O L L E G E O SH AWA
Debbie Johnston, dean of the Centre for Professional and Part-time Learning
The Spark: What cannabis-related access. The program includes the follow- Importing and Exporting Cannabis: This
courses does the college offer? ing courses: course introduces participants to the
continually changing international canna-
DJ: The Centre for Professional and Medical Cannabis Fundamentals for bis landscape and its implications to
Part-time Learning at Durham College Business Professionals: This introduc- Canadian cannabis companies for legally
offers a five-course Recognition of tory course looks at the history of the importing and exporting the product. It
Achievement program, as well as two cannabis industry in Canada, basic reg- looks at the potential scope of interna-
additional courses in cannabis studies. ulatory and legal considerations, ethical tional trade in cannabis, the implications
issues, foundational clinical concepts, of multinational treaties on importing
Cannabis Industry fundamentals of cultivation and quality and exporting cannabis, and it examines
Specialization Program control, medical uses of cannabis, insur- Canadian import/export procedures and
This program was designed in partner- ance and marketing. requirements — not only for cannabis,
ship with industry leaders to provide but also for hemp.
crucial insights into the complexities of Cannabis Law and Ethics: Upon com-
the rapidly evolving cannabis sector. It is pleting this course, participants will be Cannabis Business Operations: There
ideally suited to those who already have able to locate current Canadian legislation are five micro-courses within this course.
business experience and are interested relating to the medical and adult-use (i.e. Each of these is delivered asynchronously
in preparing to shift their career into the recreational) markets. They will then apply online without an instructor, which means
business side (i.e. non-horticultural) of this knowledge to concepts of production, that each one can be completed at the
the medical or recreational cannabis in- promotion, packaging and sales within the participant’s own pace. Each course is
dustry in Canada. The cannabis industry framework of maintaining full compli- approximately three hours in length. The
is like any other, requiring individuals ance. They will also discuss and debate micro-courses address the structure of
with skills in areas like accounting, HR, important ethical considerations regarding the industry, production facility manage-
marketing, supply-chain management, the legalization of cannabis, such as use ment, processing and testing, finance
etc. But it also requires an understand- by minors, medical claims, pardoning past and resource management and cannabis
ing of the industry itself, and that is the criminal records and more. tracking systems.
gap that this program is designed to
fill. Many of our students with business Cannabis in the Adult-Use Market: Par- Legalization of Cannabis
backgrounds have gone on to success- ticipants will develop insights into core in Canada Course
ful positions in the industry after taking customer groups as well as products and This is a general education elective
this program. services within the adult-use market. course (GNED) that’s available online to
The first four courses in this pro- Key points of differentiation between diploma students. Because we offer this
gram are each two days in length and this market and the medical cannabis course through OntarioLearn (a virtual
are delivered via Zoom — in other words, market are explored. The course ex- organization which provides the infra-
they are instructor-led and delivered in plores various branding and distribution structure that allows students from one
S H IP w it h t he
real time via video conferencing. To par- approaches and looks at how quality and college to take online courses offered
in PA R T NE R IG H T S
int o
ticipate, students must have a computer, price play key roles in the legal recre- by others), it is available throughout the
e s ig ne d CI A L IN S
webcam and high-speed Internet ational market, which must compete province. Students examine the history
wa s d C R U
g r am PRO V ID E
S EC T OR .
is p r o
effectively against illegal providers. In of cannabis in Canada, develop insights
addition, the role of responsible adult into the factors behind the decision to
Th le ad er s to CA N N A BIS
ry IN G
in dust
use and consumer education in de- legalize it, discuss various cannabis
E VOLV
Photo credit: iStock/Supersmario
IDLY
stigmatizing cannabis are examined. regulations, and explore the dynamic
infrastructure surrounding the legal rec-
t h e R AP
reational use of cannabis. The course is
it i e s of
ex
c ompl
42 hours in length, offered over a period
of seven weeks (six hours/week).
Medical Cannabis Essentials for
Health Professionals Course
This new online course (which launched
in February) is tailored for health
professionals who want to increase
CERTIFIED ETHICAL their knowledge of medical cannabis

and how it relates to everyday practice.
HACKER (C EH)
Participants learn the details of cannabi-
noids, terpenes, cannabis consumption
methods, pharmacokinetic action and
how to select appropriate strains for
clients. They learn the fundamentals of
BECOME A RECOGNIZED CYBER SECURITY PROFESSIONAL the endocannabinoid system, as well
Advance your career in the field of cyber security by learning
as how to analyze a medical cannabis
how to uncover weaknesses and vulnerabilities in target systems
by using the same knowledge and tools as a malicious hacker, treatment plan including dosing, titration
but in a lawful and legitimate manner. This short online course and identification of clinical risk factors.
delivered over three consecutive weekends prepares you to In addition, the viewpoints of provincial,
challenge the C|EH certification exam by EC Council, a world federal and professional regulatory bod-
leader in cyber security. ies and associations on cannabis use for
medical purposes is also discussed. This
Limited spaces available, program starts April 10, 2021.
two-day weekend course is delivered in strong registration levels since it began. jobs. Second, we made the decision to
real time via Zoom. Individuals who take the program are create the GNED course because we felt
REGISTER NOW www.durhamcollege.ca/ppl/ECCN from a wide range of backgrounds — not it is very important to help students be
The Spark: Why did the college only various business areas, but also able to get accurate information so they
decide to start offering cannabis- healthcare, policing, farming, government can develop well-informed perspectives
related courses? and so on. Anecdotally (because we do about cannabis. Finally, with regard to
not formally track post-graduation career the new course for health professionals,
DJ: Durham College made the decision accomplishments for short programs this was developed in response to market
to begin developing cannabis-related such as this), the jobs people have been demand, to assist healthcare providers in
courses in 2017, and our first course getting after completing this program gaining accurate and balanced insights
Our
(Medical Cannabis for Business Profes- have also been very diverse. into medical cannabis use.
sionals) launched in 2018. We made the To sum it all up, I would say that
decision to move into this area because The Spark: Why do you feel it’s we chose to develop various types of
Mission
of the very rapid growth of the industry so important to offer these courses? cannabis-related education because
and the employment opportunities that cannabis has gained legal status for
came along with this. Our extensive DJ: There are actually different reasons medical and recreational use. This
consultations with numerous industry behind our offerings. First, our primary means there are good job opportunities
Armatura Medica provides high quality leaders confirmed that they needed to goal in offering the Cannabis Indus- available for those with appropriate ed-
and performance Personal Protection hire individuals who not only had strong try Specialization program is to help ucation (particularly in Durham Region,
Equipment for various situations and business skills, but who also understood individuals quickly “fill the gaps” in their which has worked exceptionally hard to
environments. The advanced technology this unique industry. That’s why we made knowledge about the sector so they are support local companies and attract new
used in the design and manufacturing the decision to focus on the business prepared for employment opportunities ones to the area), but it also means that
of the PPE provides consistent aspects of the sector. The sector has within it. Although the industry has ex- people need to really understand the
. protection.
reproducible continued to evolve over the years and perienced tremendous change in recent product and the implications of its use.
we have continued to refine our courses years as it has continued to mature, there
to keep pace with those changes. continues to be good employment oppor-
+ 1 888 879 8216 tunities available for well-qualified can-
The Spark: What’s the interest didates, and we want to help people get
Photo credit: iStock/daboost
info@armaturamedica.com level been like from students in these

Armatura Medica’s environmentally friendly
courses?
focus is exempliﬁed by its reusable and
armaturamedica.com washable woven polyester based Medica Shell™
technology which oﬀers advanced protection. DJ: Our Cannabis Industry Specialization
program has drawn great attention and
L OYA L I S T C O L L E G E BEL L E V IL L E
Dr. Kari Kramp, principal investigator and scientific manager,
Applied Research Centre for Natural Products and Medical Cannabis
The Spark: Tell us about the nabis Applied Science students, and ad- local business and government partners
cannabis-related courses at Loyalist. vance applied cannabis research at both to develop programs that meet industry
institutions. In 2019, we also launched a demands, support entrepreneurship
KK: Loyalist College has two four-year strategic alliance with Medi- and respond to regional employment
cannabis-related programs. The first Pharm Labs. They have committed to needs. When the College’s Applied Re-
is Cannabis Applied Science — it’s an donating $100,000 in value of cannabis search Centre for Natural Products and
industry-driven Ontario College gradu- concentrates, full-spectrum extract, Medical Cannabis received its license
ate certificate program which enables specially formulated distillates and/ from Health Canada in 2017, it enabled
students who have a biosciences or isolates over the four-year alliance. us to launch the College’s Cannabis
background to explore the science of This gives the college the opportunity Applied Science post-graduate certif-
cannabis through a science, technology, to expand its applied research capacity icate program — the first of its kind in
engineering and mathematics lens, while and involve an increasing number of our Canada. The program allows students to
navigating Health Canada regulations students and researchers in industry- build on their existing diploma, degree or
and applied topics in cannabis biology, relevant projects. equivalent in the sciences, biology or a
chemistry and cultivation. Unique to The second program, a Canna- related discipline with in-depth skills to
this program is its connection to the bis Career Launch micro-credential, support cannabis product development,
College’s Applied Research Centre for launched in January. Designed to inform process optimization and address
Natural Products and Medical Cannabis, increase employment prospects and natural product quality. Students will
a nationally recognized industry centre mobility, this short, intensive micro- navigate cannabis regulations, inves-
in research for natural product develop- credential is ideal for job seekers and tigate tissue culture, formulation and
ment and advanced testing. The Centre’s incumbent workers in the cannabis sec- advanced product development while
entrepreneurship focus provides a tor who are ready for entry-level industry developing a range of lab techniques for
unique lens through which students gain training. Focused on hands-on canna- the extraction and analysis of cannabis,
exposure to both business and research bis production, safety and workplace which can provide graduates and their
innovation. Through the Applied Re- communication, the College’s Skills- employers with a competitive advantage.
search Centre, students connect Advance Ontario (SAO) pilot project is We have seen a rapid expansion
with industry to work on research-in- free, includes a paid two-week industry of the natural products and cannabis
tensive projects that focus on cannabis placement and is funded in part by the industry in the Bay of Quinte region,
product development with small and Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills and both our Cannabis Applied Science
medium-sized enterprises. Development. program and Cannabis Career Launch
Partnerships and collaborations micro-credential meet the urgent em-
The Spark: Why did Loyalist College
Photo credit: (previous page) iStock/Adventure_Photo; (this page) iStock/grandriver

is t o
with industry and academia are central ployment demands of this growing sec-
to advancing and applying the body of decide to start offering cannabis- tor. The work of the Applied Research
C e nt r e r at e
Centre is entrepreneurial, providing the
a r c h o l lab o
d Re s e
knowledge in this burgeoning sector. related courses?
an d c
p li e H IP
For example, in 2019 we announced a training required for a skilled workforce,
partnership with Northeastern University, KK: A core part of who we are at as well as collaborating with small
o f t h e Ap R E N E UR S
designed to benefit Bioscience and Can- Loyalist College is focused around and medium-sized enterprises to help
F OCU S NTR EP
creating shared value for our students, propel their products to shelves. As
A KE Y P P O RT E DU S TRY.
SU I S I N
NAB
industry and community partners. We the industry continues to innovate, our
are part of the bedrock of our community programming and research opportuni-
t he CA N
and, as such, we work closely with our ties will support students and industry
to r s i n
nn ov a
w it h i
leaders in better understanding the
plant, the process in which the plant
is grown, the ways in which it can be
analyzed and how to generate innova-
We are proud to be the institution of choice for many
small and medium-sized enterprises who are seeking
expert testing and innovative product development in
an increasingly competitive market.
tive, high-quality, consistent products in an increasingly competitive market. velopment in a growing market. We are
for market. The possibilities for unique Our students know that the hands-on, able to give our students first-hand ex-
product development and further experiential learning offered at the posure to the entrepreneurial process of
advancements in cannabis processing college, including access to state-of-the- product development, from research lab
methodologies and technology are very art facilities and training in the latest to patenting, and eventually to scaled-up
Educate » Inspire » Connect

exciting. With our advanced equipment technology, gives our students an edge production.
and analytics, these programs and our in the workforce.
industry-leading labs support education In particular, we’ve seen that many The Spark: Why do you feel it’s
and training of students and industry of our students and industry partners so important to offer these courses
personnel, while enhancing innovation, are drawn to our faculty’s expertise in to students?
productivity and global competitiveness green technologies and the work we are Starup Grind is the largest
of our industry partners. doing to test and develop sustainable KK: A key focus of the Applied
The Spark: What’s the interest

materials for cannabis products with
industry partners such as Kingston
Research Centre is to support entrepre-
neurship and collaborate with innovators
independent startup community,
level been like from students in these
courses? What careers are they most
Aluminum Technology Inc (KAT). The
Applied Research Centre’s expertise
in the cannabis industry. Prior to launch-
ing the College’s Cannabis Applied
actively educating, inspiring
interested in when it comes to the can-
nabis industry?
in green technology and cannabis has
been leveraged by KAT’s expertise
Science program, we sought feedback
from leading companies in the industry
and connecting more than
2,000,000 entrepreneurs in over
in green technology and cannabis to and established an advisory committee
KK: We have seen tremendous inter- determine and test alternative sustain- of trailblazers in the cannabis and nat-
est in the program, both from students able liner options to match the quality of ural-products sector. They emphasized
as well as industry professionals who KAT’s recyclable aluminum bottles. Our a need for a skilled workforce, and the 600 cities through fireside chats.
are collaborating with the Applied solution-driven team of researchers are rising demand for high-quality, safe and
Research Centre. A few of the careers in dedicated to helping small and medium- consistent products. Our new Cannabis
which they are most interested include sized enterprises like KAT create safe, Career Launch micro-credential meets
cannabis quality assurance manager, sustainable packaging without compro- the urgent needs of industry while pro-
lead processing technician and formula- mising product quality. viding job seekers with an accelerated
tion chemist. In their work with Exhale into path to a career in cannabis.
We are proud to be the institution of Health, the Applied Research Centre Cannabis is a dynamic industry that
choice for many small and medium-sized helped successfully develop the formu- will continue to experience rapid growth
enterprises who are seeking expert test- lation for an organic, gluten-free and for years to come. As the industry itself
ing and innovative product development vegan cannabis edible, in which the level develops, our innovative programming
of cannabis is consistent throughout the and partnerships with industry leaders
product and is a controlled amount. This will provide an avenue to tackle some
formulation placed the Applied Research unanswered questions around cannabis
Centre at the forefront of product de- and provide concrete evidence, which V I S I T US O N L I N E FO R U P CO M I N G
will influence future regulatory and leg-
DURHAM REGION EVENTS!
islative considerations for policymakers,
governments and regulators to make
more informed decisions.
startupgrind.com/durham-region
#StartupGrindDurhamRegion
48 THE SPARK SPECIAL // SPRING 2021
12
CANNABIS
INNOVATORS
we’re watching
BY LISA VAN DE GEYN & MELISSA NOWAKOWSKI
There are plenty of

incredible stories to tell
when it comes to
cannabis innovation in
this country. We chose
12 companies that are
killing it in all things weed.
1 Pathway Health
TORONTO Wayne Cockburn, president
Tell us the backstory of Your business is quickly it’s our ability to provide timely access cannabis education and certification those living with chronic pain consume such as prescription medicines. We are
Pathway Health (previously expanding. Why is now the to trained pain specialists who them- for pharmacists; becoming their referral a significant number of products to also in discussions with some of our
known as The Clinic Network) right time for Pathway Health’s selves have access, through our facility, partner for their customers looking for support their often difficult lifestyle, and pharmacy partners regarding a harm-
and how do you describe what offerings? to leading interdisciplinary treatment treatment options for their chronic pain, that we would be missing an opportunity reduction program that could potentially
you do? Chronic pain is a huge social and eco- modalities and technologies that are not including medical cannabis; and helping to help them by not providing them easy help some of their patients who may be
Pathway Health is one of the largest nomic problem that directly affects one available in most other locations. the pharmacies develop a line of canna- access to these specialized products dealing with opioid abuse. By working
providers of chronic-pain-management in five Canadians, and this number is bis health products that most experts and services through their local pharma- directly with the pharmacies on this
services in Canada. We currently have only increasing as the population ages. When it comes to telemedicine, believe will be sold through Canadian cy. By working directly with the pharma- initiative and extending our reach on a
nine clinics in four provinces, along Patients suffering from chronic pain you are the biggest chronic-pain retail pharmacy locations within the cies, we are extending our reach to new national scale, we could perhaps play
with the largest chronic-pain telehealth have very limited access to specialists telehealth network in the coun- next 12 months. patients who often make frequent trips a role in bringing down the number of
network in the country. Pathway Health to help them deal with their condition, try, and we know with COVID, For patients, we recognize that to their local pharmacies for other items opioid-abuse deaths every year.
began as The Clinic Network back in with wait times ranging from one and more and more people want
2017, when it was a small collection of three years, depending on what part to be seen by doctors virtually.
medical cannabis clinics in Alberta and of the country they’re in. We couldn’t How does this service help Chronic pain is a huge social and economic problem
Ontario. With the pending legalization imagine a better time for us to establish your patients who use medicinal
of cannabis in the fall of 2018, the a network of pain clinics across the cannabis? that directly affects one in five Canadians, and this
company made the decision to expand country to help deal with this difficult By being able to connect with our
its services to include all forms of pain situation. And we also see ourselves physicians and supporting healthcare number is only increasing as the population ages.
management and to create a network serving a valuable role in helping the staff through telemedicine, our medical
of pain clinics across the country. pharmacy companies prepare for the cannabis patients can avoid the risk,
anticipated changes to the Cannabis time and costs associated with a visit
You’re currently located Act later this year as cannabis health to an actual physical location. Unlike
in Toronto — why did you products become much more available some of the interventional services we
choose Clarington for your to the general public. offer — where the patient must show up
expansion? in clinic to receive their treatment — our
Photo credit: (previous page) iStock/ClaudioValdes; (this page) iStock/Esther Kelleter

We are looking to re-establish a You’re one of the largest pro- medical cannabis patients can benefit
meaningful presence in Clarington viders of chronic-pain services from the convenience of telemedicine
through a potential partnership that in the country offering several with no impact on the level of service
would expand our ability to develop and services — clinical, telemedi- they receive.
distribute products to patients suffer- cine and products. In terms of
ing from chronic pain. This expansion clinical, Pathway Health boasts You also have initiatives with
would also serve as the backbone the biggest provincial Ministry pharmacies you’re working
to our pharmacy initiative, where we of Health out-of-hospital pain with so far on product distribu-
are currently working with a number centre in Canada. What sets tion. Why did you decide to get
of Canadian pharmacy companies to your clinics apart from other into the product-development
help them develop a line of cannabis clinics? category and how does this
health products that are expected to be I can think of a number of things that ultimately help patients?
available through their retail pharmacy set us apart from other clinics, but if We actually have three initiatives with
locations within a year. I were to narrow it down, I would say the pharmacy companies including:
2 CBD2.0
N O R T H A ME R I C A N B R A ND FA CIN G U S A ND C A N A D A
Margaret Lancaster, co-founder and general manager and

Amedeo Tessuti, co-founder and creative director
3 Hybrid Pharm
O T TAWA
it’s the first pharmacy in North America

where patients can walk out with the
medical cannabis products they need.
It’s a bona fide pharmacy where patients
can get their questions answered by
truly qualified medical professionals.
“When people need medical advice,
they call their doctor or pharmacist.
Those who work in retail cannabis stores
are not experts in medical cannabis.
There is a lot of misinformation, confu-
sion and miseducation out there,” says
Dhalla. “Cannabis is a medicine. We
have an opportunity for pharmacies to
provide this service. Pharmacists know
their patients — they know their drug
profiles, know how to mitigate risk and
they knew the safest options.” He says
going into a retail cannabis store doesn’t
provide the same benefit. “Budtenders
are not qualified to answer patients. In
this case, patients are going to a recre-
ational store when they should be seeing
Tell us about the company. We (and our board) come from a system technology — it dramatically im- someone who knows how cannabis will
The demand for cannabinoid beauty is prestige skincare and consumer luxury proves the absorption and bioavailability interact with their current medications.
high. Sixty-four percent of women know background. We identified the need of our key ingredients including high- At Hybrid Pharm, we’ve helped patients
that beauty and personal-care products for this back in 2017, the burgeoning level organic, broad-spectrum cannabi- come off opioids, benzodiazepines, less-
containing cannabinoids and hemp place for CBD as a “super-ingredient” noids, terpenes and flavonoids. en their antidepressant medications.
are available, and 72 percent of those in wellness and the nascent athleisure Cannabis can provide so many benefits
who haven’t tried a beauty product
with cannabis are willing to give it a try.
CBD2.0 is a prestige wellness brand de-
market. Our bet was correct — CBD2.0
went on to ink a deal with leading Amer-
ican ingredient supplier, Geocann, for
Where do you see CBD2.0
down the road?
CBD2.0 intends to launch a refreshing,
A s a pharmacist, Rahim Dhalla knows
the benefits of cannabis. He’s also
seen them first-hand as a son. “My
comes to dispensing cannabis.” Dhalla
says that’s when he decided he wanted
to help people learn about cannabis,
when it comes to medicine.”
Going to a pharmacy for your
cannabis needs has a plethora of
veloped to meet the growing demand of the use of VESIsorb® in its CBD topical edgy and youthful brand in Canada, father had cancer in 2016 and I started teach them how to use it effectively, give advantages, but one of the biggest is
discerning consumers for the calming products. targeting the Zoom economy, essen- him on cannabis oil to help relieve the them safe access to it and answer their that your journey will be monitored. “We
and health benefits of high-level CBD. tial workers and telecommuters with side effects of chemotherapy, his pain, questions. His end goal, he decided, was offer follow-ups using a virtual platform
It’s problem/solution positioning for What is the company a range of products to maximize their loss of appetite, etc. I was hopeful and to help patients bridge the gap between for appointments. Once they have a
millennials who are using CBD products currently working on in terms alertness while reducing signs of fa- soon family and friends started asking pharmaceuticals and therapeutic prescription, they can come into the
for anxiety and insomnia, and baby of innovation and technology? tigue, soreness and sleep disruptions. me about medical cannabis,” Dhalla cannabis. “I told my dad about it before pharmacy, pick it up, ask about side
boomers who are looking to address Our calming, soothing, healing face and Stay tuned for a late summer launch at says. “That was the beginning of this he passed. He wanted me to do this effects, etc. We’re the point of care.
chronic conditions for pain manage- body products and edible elixirs utilize leading specialty retailers and wherever journey — I knew we needed to have business and told me to run with it.” We’re here for them and we can follow
ment and inflammation. the multi-patented VESIsorb® delivery CBD is sold. proper education and guidance when it Hybrid Pharm opened in 2018 — their journeys.”
4 Tilray
N A N A IM O, B C
In conversation with Philippe Lucas, vice-president of

Patient Research and Access at Tilray: How this Canadian
cannabis leader is pioneering research on the use — and
quantifiable benefits — of medical cannabis among the
fastest-growing group of users: older patients.
On research around medical ticipants in the study. We’ve looked at of others — has shown that people
cannabis. Tilray was actually the first how medical cannabis has affected their respond well to medical cannabis, and
GMP-certified medical cannabis produc- quality of life, pain management, sleep it seems to be well-tolerated by older
er in North America, and has conducted and prescription drug use. populations. The majority of the patients
Canada’s largest national prospective We used well-validated measures in the study were using orally ingested
study on the medical use of cannabis. to gather data, such as the Brief Pain CBD products — so typically high-CBD
So our research is extensive: We’ve Inventory, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality oils. The overall safety and efficacy of
looked at various therapeutic uses of Index, and the EuroQol Five Dimensions medical cannabis is significant, par-
cannabis — for instance, in pediatric ep- Questionnaire that measures quality ticularly when compared with some of
ilepsy, cancer chemotherapy, post-trau- of life. We documented all prescription the side effects of other prescription
matic stress disorder, substance use drug use and monitored any adverse drugs like opioids, such as dizziness,
disorders and, most recently, in our events related to the cannabis use. disorientation and constipation. It’s also
study on the use of medical cannabis by significant when you look at the current
older patients. On the study’s findings. Working opioid overdose crisis. Our research sug-
with a team including Dr. Blake Pearson gests that many patients are looking for
On the latest research. The goal and Tilray’s Clinical Research Manager alternatives to these drugs, and to the
of our MCOPS research — Medical Can- Kaye Ong, we found that 74 percent of side effects that can come with them.
nabis in Older Patients — is to examine patients in the study reported improve- The research we do or support with prescription drugs. And in the But we really need the federal
the impact of medical cannabis on ments in pain management; 63 percent through Tilray is always very well-received treatment of common conditions — pain, government to remove the excise tax on
patients over 50 years old; the average reported better sleep; and 74 percent by the medical community and by our stress, anxiety, insomnia — we’ve seen a medical cannabis, and we need both pri-
age of participants is 66. Older patients reported improved quality of life. federal regulators. I’m very fortunate and high potential for success. Knowing this, vate and public payers to cover the cost
are the fastest-growing demographic At the same time, we saw statis- very grateful to have the opportunity to I think there’s an opportunity, with Can- of medical cannabis to patients. Some
accessing medical cannabis, but there’s tically significant reductions in the six do this work, and share the findings with ada in a leadership role, to make medical private payers are starting to do this, but
very little understanding of how they use primary categories of prescription drugs physicians and policymakers around the cannabis a staple in the physician’s toolkit it needs to happen across the board. It
this medicine. used by these patients: non-opioid and globe. And from a patient perspective, — so that patients who might benefit makes sense from a financial standpoint
While the research is ongoing, we’ve opioid pain medications, blood pressure our data can help inform treatment op- from it can learn about it directly from — given the potential for medical can-
conducted an interim analysis of these medications, antiseizure drugs, dia- tions, which is so important. their doctor. This would help remove nabis to reduce prescription-drug costs
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Tilray
patients during their first six months of betes drugs and antidepressants. The one of the major barriers to accessing — and more importantly from a patient
prescribed medical cannabis use. percentage of patients using opioids, for On Tilray and medical can- medical cannabis. perspective: We don’t want patients to
Overwhelmingly these are patients example, dropped 63 percent over six nabis down the road. We know We also need to address the cost have to choose between paying their
affected by chronic pain, arthritis and months. And the average daily dosage of through research that there’s a very barrier. At Tilray, we mitigate that with a rent and buying the cannabis they need
insomnia — those three conditions have opioids dropped 74 percent. low potential for harm associated with compassionate access program that pro- to help them live pain-free. That’s not a
accounted for about 80 percent of par- Generally, our research — and that medical cannabis, particularly compared vides discounts to lower-income patients. choice Canadians should have to make.
5 GROBO
WAT E R L O O
Bjorn Dawson, founder and
CEO
What’s your backstory? from the ground up to make it the easy it makes growing. They also love
In 2013, I enjoyed my first homegrown absolute best growing system for both our customer support. With a challeng-
lettuce, tomatoes and basil and was food and medicine. ing process such as growing plants, we
instantly hooked. This simple start was With our team of six, we moved to promise to be there for our customers
the catalyst for Grobo, a company ded- Shenzhen, China, to participate in HAX, every step of the way. We also have a
icated to improving people’s health by the premier hardware accelerator in great forum and community building
directly connecting us with what we con- the world, and build prototypes faster over at allgrowers.com.
sume. With this desire for homegrown than ever before. Since our initial launch
food, and with another cold Canadian of the Grobo One system, it has gone What are you currently
winter on the horizon, my next step was through numerous design iterations to working on in terms of
to move my garden indoors to continue make it the best possible growing sys- innovation and technology?
enjoying this delicious food. tem. In April 2019, we officially renamed We’re actually working on cleaning up
With no good solutions on the it the Grobo Premium. At the same time, our technology to make it more scalable
market, I built my own mini green- and robust. It’s not often talked
house out of wood and painter’s about but after spending years
drop cloths. It took days of research developing, testing, trying, failing
and building, but eventually I had and succeeding, it’s now time to
built a system that fit in my living clean up. We’re focused on making
room and would grow plants for the everything repeatable, squashing
next four months. The design was the bugs and preparing ourselves
far from perfect and it performed for the next stages of research and
that way, too, but the idea sparked development. This is being done
the interest of friends and family through hardware, firmware and
and that’s how the development of software. The result will be an im-
Grobo officially began. proved customer experience, bet-
We started with Grobo Pods, a we launched the Grobo Solid. The Grobo ter grows for the customer and a robust
modular growing system, and the idea Solid is designed to be a more afford- platform for us to continue developing on.
was simple — design a growing system able growing system since it does not
that allows everyone, regardless of time, have our patented fluid glass technolo- What’s next for Grobo?
space and knowledge restrictions to gy. That’s how we started. At Grobo, our goal is to make growing
grow their own fresh food. easy. We just launched the Grobo Start
After a year and a half of devel- We read about how Grobo seed starter, which allows our customers
opment, we built a team, won some works. It looks like we don’t to start their seeds before their current
funding and Grobo Pods was almost need to be green thumbs to grow is complete, or grow smaller plants
complete, but something had changed. grow. What’s the feedback like herbs or lettuce. Our next steps will
Throughout this time, many medicinal from customers been like? be to continue creating an ecosystem of
cannabis patients had asked us if we Exactly! It’s designed to be as easy to products that all make home growing as
could help them grow their medication. use as possible and customers are easy as possible. This will include even
As a result, in January 2016, we really enjoying that experience. Custom- more automation and leveraging our
started over and redesigned Grobo ers are enjoying the system and how data sets to improve grows.
6 Grey Wolf Animal Health
TORONTO
Dr. Ian Sandler, CEO
On Grey Wolf’s backstory.

Grey Wolf Animal Health is a specialty
On Grey Wolf’s advocacy
in ending the stigma and
At least half of our anesthetics that
are used for common procedures such
We have engaged
animal health company focused on legitimizing cannabis. Grey Wolf as spays, neuters or dentals are in discussions with
improving the lives and well-being of Animal Health has taken this oppor- human prescription drugs. This is com-
vets and pets in Canada. Our mission is tunity to educate veterinarians on the mon and legal practice in our profes- Health Canada
to advocate for
to identify and bring to market products, potential use of cannabis as another sion, without our ability to use human
solutions and services that meet the “tool in our therapeutic tool chest” drugs off-label, many animals would
underserved needs of vets, pets and
clinics across Canada.
to potentially address many different
ailments in both dogs and cats. We
not be able to be treated for common
disease like cancer, chronic pain or
veterinarians to
have also engaged in discussions severe epilepsy. authorize the use of
On cannabis as an option for with Health Canada to advocate for
pets. Many human patients have veterinarians to authorize the use of On Grey Wolf’s future. cannabis through the
medical vertical.
looked to cannabis for a more plant- cannabis through the medical vertical. As Health Canada evaluates the po-
based, non-pharmaceutical approach Currently, veterinarians can prescribe tential for cannabis products in animal
to many ailments such as pain, arthritis, any cannabis products that are health, Grey Wolf Animal Health will
anxiety and cognitive-behaviour issues. registered as prescription drugs, but continue to support research and the
For many pet parents, similar problems cannot authorize its use through the advocacy work toward a legal path for
exist in their four-legged friends. As medical route. Veterinarians are frus- the use of Cannabis based products
Canadians choose alternatives for them- trated because many of the drugs we in Canada. We are hopeful that veteri-
selves, they are also looking for natural use every day are drugs that are not narians will be able to access cannabis
options for their pets. licensed for animals. products in the near future.
Keep Your Pets Safe

“It is important that pet owners keep their cannabis products safely out of reach of their pets at all times. This is espe-
cially important for edible cannabis products which can be very appealing to pets. Many edibles may also contain cocoa,
chocolate or xylitol (an artificial sweetener), all of which are highly toxic to dogs, and add to the severity of the problem.
It is also important that pet owners understand that veterinary professionals need to know if your pet has potentially
been exposed to cannabis (or other recreational or non-recreational drugs) in order to effectively diagnose and treat
them. Many pet owners are reluctant to admit to the possession or possible exposure of their pets because of concern
for prosecution or retribution, but this can lead to wasted time and money, as well as unnecessary suffering or death for
the pet. If your pet is showing unusual neurological signs such as excessive sleepiness, difficulty walking, urinary leak-
age, seizures, loss of consciousness or inability to stand, please seek veterinary care immediately, and be upfront with
Photo credit: iStock/Litvalifa
your vet regarding any possible exposure to cannabis or any other intoxicants.”
— Dr. Christina McRae, Humane Society of Durham Region veterinarian
7 Turnkey Aquaponics
O SH AWA
As the desire to grow cannabis anywhere, in any environment,

What it is
Turnkey Aquaponics specializes in
Timothy Sarvendran — two students at
Ontario Tech University — drew atten-
energy-rich plant matter are grown,
then discarded as waste. The CHP is
aquaponics — a form of agriculture tion when their aquaponics technology comprised of three main subsystems —
increases, so does indoor cultivation and with it, more that combines the growing of plants won the Spark Centre Ignite pitch com- an anaerobic digester, microgrid
energy use and waste. One startup, Oshawa, Ont.-based without soil, known as hydroponics, and petition that same year. The students, and thermal system. The waste from
aquaculture, like fish farming, into a now co-founders, incorporated Turnkey cultivation flows through anaerobic
Turnkey Aquaponics, is addressing the economic and environ- symbiotic self-contained system. Their
solutions also include an agricultural
Aquaponics in 2015 and continued to
work on designs for their CHP system
digestion — composting without oxy-
gen — which produces biogas that is
mental feasibility of cannabis cultivation with its innovative micro-combined heat-and-power sys- and LED lighting technologies while then burned in a generator to produce
tem (CHP), as well as innovative finishing their studies. electricity, and carbon dioxide in the
engineering tech. LED lighting solutions. growing space.
What started as a hobby project Impact on the
in 2014 for Michael Veneziano and cannabis industry Looking ahead
Turnkey Aquaponics’ LED lights, which At the time of publication, the lockdown
are proudly manufactured in a factory had shuttered their manufacturing facil-
based in Toronto, optimize rapid plant ity, so Turnkey has been working on sev-
growth. Turnkey’s LED grow lights can eral secondary projects that were not
be customized to a specific plant’s scheduled to be developed for a few
spectrum requirements or to a grower’s years. One of those projects is the con-
request. For example, growers may struction of a grow-testing laboratory
want indica or sativa-heavy cannabis, that will feature several grow chambers
both of which require their own unique with controllable environments that will
spectrums. By varying light parameters, better refine their LED grow lights.
growers can promote different levels of The co-founders also plan to build
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), as well as the prototype of their CHP system out
customize the speed and size of plant of a space provided by Ontario Tech
growth. Turnkey’s LED grow lights are University once pandemic restrictions
passively cooled, which means there are lifted. Until then, they’re exploring
is no risk of inefficient or high- the repurposing of some components
failure components; the design not of their CHP for residential use and
only extends the life of the LED lights small commercial buildings.
significantly, but it also helps to reduce With their LED grow lights and CHP
operating costs. technology, Turnkey Aquaponics is mak-
Turnkey also offers a micro- ing it possible for the cannabis industry
combined heat-and-power system (CHP) to rapidly grow plants year-round in any
that encourages the utilization of all environment — from cities to remote
waste streams generated by cannabis communities — in the most energy-
cultivation. When it comes to harvest- efficient, environmentally sustainable
ing cannabis plants, large volumes of and cost-effective way.
8
Homegrown Laboratories Inc.
W HI T BY
9 BRNT
E DM O N T O N
Tarek Ahmed, CFO and
director at BRNT Group
What’s your backstory? nabis consumer as they grow in their

BRNT started as a concept when Simon cannabis journey. BRNT is currently
Grigenas, at the time a Bachelor of working on developing brands along-
Commerce student at the University of side our production partners such as
Alberta, noticed a gap in the Canadian Valens Groworks (TSX: VLNS) and Can-
cannabis industry’s accessory offer- dre Cannabis to bring new brands and
ings. Using his background in design, cannabis consumable products to mar-
he designed the Hexagon, which is ket. So far, we have launched the Made
our flagship product on the accessory By (which are full spectrum vaporizers)
arm of the business. From that, BRNT and Violet Tourist brands (premium
Designs, our first brand, was born — flower/large-format mini-sized cannabis
the brand targeted the new legal con- pre-rolls), as well as our existing BRNT
sumer who wanted to hold an acces- Designs accessory brand.
sory line that was more aesthetically Our team is currently working on
pleasing and able to fit in with your growing these brands in the forms of
general home decor, similar to how a new SKUs, as well as innovating on
nice bottle of scotch is displayed on additional brands that we can’t wait to
shelves in homes across share with customers in the near future
Canada. as we work with new and existing part-
S ince the legalization of cannabis

in Canada, one way in which the
cannabis industry has evolved consid-
but these home-growers don’t have
access to the same laboratory testing
that licensed practitioners (LPs) do.
ensure that their homegrown cannabis
does not contain heavy metals, pesti-
cides, residual solvents or foreign ma-
The Hexagon launch
was crowdfunded and
afterwards we had the
ners on consumables product pipeline.
Where do you see BRNT

erably is in safety. Prior to legalization, That said, where can home-growers — terial. Cannabis can also be analyzed first capital raise, down the road ?
there was virtually no means of testing or hobby-growers, as they are known in for microbiological purity — detecting which allowed us to BRNT is only getting started here in
cannabis products to ensure what the industry — turn to detect mould on mould, mildew or rot — even in plants expand into a further the Canadian landscape. BRNT is
Canadians were consuming was safe. their plants, determine the potency of that have been grown organically. 17 SKUs across a wide variety dedicated to bringing new, amazing
With the legalization, Health Canada the edibles they’ve just prepared and Since its start, Homegrown of accessory segments including products, as well as innovating on
has mandated regulatory testing of more? Enter Homegrown Laboratories. Laboratories has been working on a consumption (Ashtray, Hexagon brands. We believe that Cannabis 3.0
all cannabis sold commercially, which Established in late 2020 by revised testing program to ensure and bong, Prism Pipe), storage will be focused on brands and higher
has dramatically improved its consis- founder and CEO Stuart Smith, Home- promote safe cannabis consumption (Malua jar) and preparation product quality and we plan on being
tency and safety. This has put many grown Laboratories. provides analytical for products that are not sold through (Yaketa board). on the forefront of that wave. In the
cannabis users at ease, knowing that testing of cannabis grown at residences the Ontario Cannabis Store. They are near future, we hope to leverage our
what they are consuming has been in Ontario. By providing home-growers currently setting up a new, state-of- What’s the company early traction in the markets we are in
thoroughly tested. access to similar testing that is done the-art lab in Whitby, Ont., which will be Illustration credit: (previous page) iStock/ST.art. currently working on in to expand to shelves across Canada as
For those Canadians who grow for large LPs, Homegrown Laboratories fully operational by the fall of 2021. terms of innovation and we continue to grow with the Canadian
their cannabis at home, however, it is helps these micro-growers ensure that For Canadians wanting to grow their technology? consumers’ tastes and desires. We
still difficult to access affordable anal- what is being matured at home is as own cannabis, Homegrown Laborato- The accessory line was the humble look forward to unveiling a number of
ysis of the cannabis growing in their safe as the product that is tightly regu- ries is providing peace of mind, an beginnings of the company. Since then, new products in segments we have
own backyards to ensure safety for lated by the government. In addition to extra layer of option and reducing stig- BRNT has strived to become one of the not entered yet while we continue to
consumption. Legally, Canadians can testing dried cannabis for potency and ma regarding safety as the cannabis first brand development companies expand on our success in the segments
grow up to four plants on their property, terpenes, testing can also be done to industry evolves. dedicated to serving the Canadian can- we are already in.
10 We’d Share
A JA X
11
From a community standpoint, the stigma of cannabis
use and the fears regarding the implications of the W e’d Share — Canada’s first free
cannabis social network — sees
this exchange of information as a means
massive amounts of capital were being
invested in Licenced Producers (LPs)
and the technologies that were in devel-
and can be used to unlock access to
free cannabis gifts that other members
have posted for exchange.
legalization of cannabis are starting to diminish, thanks to further the understanding of canna- opment to support industrial cultivation We’d Share also features the first
bis, normalize its use and even assist and to maximize yields. From the get-go, AI strain recommendation tool in the
to an abundance of proper research, data collection with reducing the size of the cannabis the Canadian Cannabis Act included cannabis industry — a chatbot named
and information being widely shared.

black market. one section allowing for home cultiva- Caiti (or Cannabis AI Technology Inter-
Andrzej Swinarski, founder of tion and the gifting of cannabis among face) that was developed in partnership
We’d Share, saw the potential in On- adults. It was here where Swinarski saw with Durham College’s AI Hub. Caiti
tario’s cannabis industry back in 2017, an opportunity in what he anticipated not only has the ability to offer can-
when discussions around potential legal- could become a saturated market. nabis strain recommendations based
ization were just starting. As the legaliza- The concept was simple: an online on a static data set, but over time its
tion of cannabis inched toward reality, community that focused on supporting increase in accuracy will offer users
legal home cultivation and facilitated even more chances to get better results
the sharing of information, experience, from cultivation.
education and the cannabis flower. In With the cannabis industry now in
December 2018, that concept came to full swing, Swinarski has been concen-
fruition and We’d Share was born. This trating on refining the platform’s user
online community enables all Canadians experience, with a focus on aesthetics,
— from “newbies” and seasoned culti- intuition and new technology —
vation experts to professionals in the specifically working with fellow startup
cannabis industry — to easily connect BlokSec on incorporating password-less
and communicate with each other about authentication to provide stronger
their common passion: growing quality protection against identity theft and
cannabis. We’d Share’s technology con- cyberattacks, as well as training its
nects the dots regarding home cultiva- AI chatbot to expand the scope of its
tion, and makes it easy for the cannabis responses to strain-related questions.
community to educate themselves, Most importantly, Swinarski is dedicated
explore new products, exchange infor- to attracting investors and accelerating
mation and gift cannabis to each other the growth of We’d Share’s community
within the legal limits. We’d Share’s while exploring industry partnerships
framework resembles Facebook’s social- in terms of subject matter experts and
engagement component in that it allows high-calibre products to further success
members to connect, ask questions in home cultivation for Canadians. The
and share experiences in a supportive access to information and experience
environment. The platform is also gami- that We’d Share provides has already
fied through the use of “Toke’ns,” which begun to churn smarter, more-educated
rewards community members based on decisions regarding cannabis use now
the level of their engagement on the site and looking ahead.
11 Cold Plasma Group
K IN G S T O N
Florina Truica-Marasescu, co-founder and

chief technical officer at Cold Plasma Group Inc.
Tell us about the company’s and completed the research-and-devel- sible to maintain the sterile conditions.
backstory. opment work to achieve the technical Also, it has been shown that cannabis
The project that eventually led to the proof-of-concept, to scale-up the pro- can fail the microbial tests even after
creation of Cold Plasma Group (CPG) cess and to implement the technology being processed, packaged and stored,
started in 2017 with a friendly conver- on custom-made industrial machines. as the ambient conditions of tempera-
sation with Dr. Luc C. Duchesne, an ac- ture and relative humidity during storage
complished scientist and well-respected Why is the sterilization of can favour microbes already present to
cannabis industry executive. He talked cannabis so important? grow and multiply. If a cannabis product
about the challenges that licensed Because cannabis can be used by fails the mandated microbial testing,
producers (LP) face in order to meet chronically ill patients, or by patients the LP will inevitably experience a severe
industry’s regulatory standards, which with a weak immune system, pharma- financial hit due to loss of crop. To give
require cannabis to be nearly devoid of ceutical regulations worldwide (including an idea of the scale, the cannabis
any microbes. This is nearly impossible in Canada) ask that cannabis adhere microbial contamination was estimated is clean, environmentally friendly and tion processes in the cannabis industry. decades of scientific research, plasmas
to achieve under standard cultivation to strict safety standards regarding the to be a $4 billion problem in 2020 in safe for both the product and workers. For example, the sterilization process is are not widely used on an industrial
conditions, making post-harvest decon- It’s free of chemicals and radiation, and fast (exposures under 30 minutes) and scale, seen by many as being largely
Our plasma process was shown by

tamination of cannabis products an es- it is highly effective at sterilizing without the plasma machines are inexpensive, exotic processes.
sential step in production process. While damaging the cannabis quality factors, have a compact footprint, are scalable CPG is planning to help change
other sterilization methods already
exist, such as autoclaving, irradiation
third-party validation tests to effectively such as appearance, smell, trichomes
and the concentrations of various can-
with production needs and are easy to
use. All relevant process parameters
the “plasma game.” Building upon the
success of the sterilization technology
with gamma rays or with ultraviolet (UV) reduce the populations of yeast and moulds nabinoid and terpene molecules. The
most resilient microbes on cannabis are
are recorded and stored on the onboard for cannabis, we will develop custom
radiation, the therapeutic compounds computer, and separate doors for the plasma processes and machines for
in medical cannabis (cannabinoids and on cannabis by up to 99.99 percent. the spores of various yeast and mould untreated and treated products mini- industrial-scale implementation in
terpenes) are very sensitive to heat and species, like Aspergillus, a common mizes the risk of recontamination. Our many industries, such as the treatment
radiation and undergo decarboxylation, mould (a type of fungus) omnipresent machines can self-clean between runs of seeds, food and the sterilization of
causing their decay when subjected to level of microbial contamination. When North America alone. Sterilization of the indoors and outdoors and known to and have production capacity scaled to protective equipment, such as personal
the sterilization processes mentioned harmful microbes or fungal spores are harvested flowers prior to packaging is cause a dangerous infection called the needs of the LPs. protective equipment. The treatment
above. Dr. Duchesne was searching inhaled during smoking or vaporization, therefore a much-needed step, and the aspergillosis. Our plasma process was of seeds is an area we are extremely
for an alternative, which led me to the they may enter the lungs and blood last opportunity for the LPs to ensure shown by third-party validation tests to What’s next for excited about; here, cold plasmas can
idea that a cold plasma process can be stream directly and cause opportu- regulatory compliance, reduce the odds effectively reduce the populations of Cold Plasma Group? be used to remove pesticides, mycotox-
developed specifically for the purpose nistic infections. On the other hand, it of storage-related losses to occur and to yeast and moulds on cannabis by up to Cold plasmas can be used for many dif- ins and to promote germination rates
of sterilizing cannabis flowers without is impossible to grow cannabis under extend the product shelf-life. 99.99 percent. This translated to the ferent purposes, such as to clean, decon- and plant growth, leading to increased
damaging their appearance or thera- sufficiently sterile conditions to keep average total yeast and mould counts taminate or create deposits (coatings) at crop yields and shorter harvest times.
peutic properties. Following successful contamination levels below the required What is the company currently coming down, too. The results for other surfaces of materials without damaging We are also looking to create safe and
experimental trials in 2018 and due safety limits. Even if it were feasible to working on in terms of innova- microbes, such as Aerobic Bacteria and their bulk properties. They are particular- environmentally friendly alternatives for
diligence on the business opportunity, grow “sterile” cannabis, the multiple tion and technology? E. coli were equally as good. Once the ly useful for treating organic materials, manufacturing, to hopefully displace the
CPG was created in early 2019 to bring steps of the production process, such CPG has developed a patent-pending third-party validation was done, we have which are sensitive to heat and radiation. current chemical processes, which are
this technology to market. Since then, as harvesting, drying, processing and sterilization process for cannabis based scaled up the process and designed However, despite accounting for about 99 energy-intensive, toxic and polluters for
we have filed for an international patent packaging would make it nearly impos- on cold plasma treatments. This process machines to fit the needs of the produc- percent of all matter in the universe, and the environment.
12On Aleafia Health’s backstory.
Aleafia Health
F OUR FA CIL I T IE S IN O N TA R I O
Geoffrey Benic, CEO
The original idea behind Aleafia Health

ty to help get people off of opioids, and
it’s what gets me motivated every day.
there is a lot of exciting work being
done by companies, researchers and
was to focus on providing Canadians academics here in Canada. We feel we
with physician-led medical cannabis On the company’s innovation can contribute to advancing cannabis as
care and to produce outstanding prod- and technology. There are two an alternative to traditional pharmaceu-
ucts for patients. While the industry parts to our innovation story. First, we ticals through the work we do.
continues to evolve rapidly, that original operate a national network of clinics, We also believe that medical canna-
founding mission is still very much the where patients can see a physician and bis should be affordable and accessible.
same. The only difference is that while get advice on whether or not medical That’s why we are proud to provide com-
home base remains right here in the cannabis products may be beneficial to passionate pricing to those who need
Greater Toronto Area (GTA), we are be- them. That’s allowed us to build a really it, including low-income individuals and
coming a much more global company. important database that can help in- veterans.
Our facility in Port Perry was actu- form our doctors on what types of prod-
ally where everything began. The small ucts, cannabis strains and treatment On the future. Our team is so
indoor grow facility evolved into what is methods work for a variety of patients. excited about 2021. The previous three
now an 86-acre outdoor cultivation site On the other hand, we’ve invested years have been all about building and
— the first of its kind in Canada. Today, a lot of resources into creating some receiving approval to begin operating our
we also have a greenhouse in Grimsby, really advanced and novel cannabis production facilities. Now we are seeing
Ont., a distribution centre in Vaughan, products. The goal, whether it’s for a the fruit of this labour as we bring all of
our exciting products to market. Some
We’ve established a great reputation

areas that are going to be a big focus
for us next year include our exclusive
in the medical space, and we are excited partnership with Unifor. That’ll see us
helping to provide medical cannabis to
to share our products with a whole new Unifor members with the goal of seeing
members and their families receive
group of people. insurance coverage for their medicine.
Aleafia is also taking a big step
into the adult-use (recreational) market
Ont., and our product innovation centre patient or a customer at a retail store, in Canada. We’ve established a great
in Paris, Ont. is to provide access to products that are reputation in the medical space, and we
Everyone has an interesting story consistent, enjoyable and unique. For are excited to share our products with a
about why they got into the cannabis example, we’re incredibly proud of our whole new group of people.
business. For me, I was an Ontario Kin Slips, a cannabis-infused sublingual Finally, we are going to see a lot
Hockey League (OHL) hockey player and strip that’s placed under your tongue. more of our products exported to inter-
briefly played professionally. I saw a lot national markets, including the Europe-
of my former teammates have serious On working to legitimize and an Union, Australia and Israel. I think
Aleafia CEO, Geoffrey Benic® at the Port
trouble with opioid dependency to deal destigmatize cannabis. The we as Canadians can be proud that this
Perry outdoor grow facility giving a tour to
with all the injuries they suffered on the science of cannabis continues to evolve. homegrown industry is thriving and a
local cannabis retailers.
ice. I saw cannabis as a great opportuni- We are just scratching the surface and model for the world to follow.
Got the
Munchies?
Folks who enjoy smoking or eating ability to smell and taste food, making
cannabis can attest to the fact that at them want to eat more. Other research
one time or another, they’ve had the suggests cannabis acts on the part of
munchies — the cannabis-induced the brain which can increase the amount
cravings — for sweet, salty or carbohy- of dopamine — the pleasure neurotrans-
drate-laden foods. mitter — that’s released. Whatever the
It turns out tetrahydrocannabinol reason, consider keeping salty snacks
(THC) is to blame. This ingredient is and sugary treats within reach if you
responsible for the “head high” many indulge. You’ll thank us later.
of us feel when using cannabis, but it’s
also the culprit behind our desperate
need for snacks after smoking. Experts
say THC gets to the part of the brain that
influences our appetite, which stimu-
lates our need to chow down. (Of course,
there’s a benefit here for medicinal
users who have lost their appetites due Specializing in the assessment and management of chronic
to chemotherapy and other side effects
from some drugs. THC is a stimulant
pain. We provide comprehensive pain care in the following
and can help them regain some of their areas:
food cravings.) One study published in
Nature Neuroscience in 2014 found that
Back Pain Neck Pain Post-Trauma and Surgery Pain
in mice, THC significantly increased their
Chronic Headaches Neuropathic Pain Rare Disease Management
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Osteoarthritis Trigeminal Neuralgia
(CRPS)
Pelvic Pain
Fibromyalgia
For a listing of our comprehensive multidisciplinary treatments and services,

including Medical Cannabis consultations where appropriate, please visit us at
SilverPainCentre.ca where you can download our referral form for your
physician to complete.
Photo credit: iStock/jenifoto
4646 Dufferin Street Unit #9

Toronto, ON M3M 5S4
Tel: (416) 512-6407
Toll Free: 1 (800) 807-0078

SilverPainCentre.ca info@silverpaincentre.ca
SUPPORTING THE GROWTH OF
INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Spark Centre is committed to supporting technology and innovation businesses with high-level
programming, advisory services and funding opportunities. As a regional innovation centre,
we are helping drive economic growth and sustainability in Durham Region and Northumberland County.
Contact us today to find out how Spark Centre is supporting

Eastern Ontario’s innovation and entrepreneurial communities.
www.sparkcentre.org
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A SPECIAL-INTEREST PUBLICATION: A LOOK INTO CANNABIS INNOVATION IN ONTARIO

EVERYTHING YOU WANTED

Photo credit (top): iStock/Yarygin

B THE SPARK SIP // WINTER

BAKED WITH LOVE

THE CANNABIS CHURCH

Specialized software for Pharmacy and

• Quick & Easy Setup • Route Optimization • Proof of Delivery

THE SPARK SPECIAL // SPRING 2021 3

ADVERTISING & CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

ABOUT THE SPARK

The Spark is Spark Centre’s quarterly publication centred around

INVEST. VER. PUBLISHER

impact on my life, my mental health and

I suffer from light-sleeper syndrome,

I will hear it. I was waking up on aver-

Proudly serving Durham Region

cultivating my knowledge of while others are into the development of

12 THE POT BOOM

Photo credit: iStock/Sarah Pender

Despite the pan-

stores have been

the province like

Photo credit: (previous page) iStock/msk.nina; (this page) iStock/Zenkyphoto

Unfamiliar with pretty much the entire cannabis space,

Photo credit: (left) iStock/Tetiana Lazunova, iStock/paseven; (right) iStock/Vladi333

Indica vs. Sativa CBD

Figure 242. Figure 243. Inflammation

“This time, I was determined to use

Home Oxygen PAP Therapy

Illustration credit (entire article): iStock/wildpixel

Urgent, Virtual, Primary Care for Seniors 55+

The Seniors Urgency Room is a unique integrated

A NOT-FOR-PROFIT seniors focused community health hub

business. Here’s the

story behind Slow Ride

A multi-billion-dollar industry on the rise, cannabis can be

Electromagnetic Spectrum Lighting

Kelly Addison is on a mission to spread

Kelly’s Green Lounge

CERTIFIED ETHICAL their knowledge of medical cannabis

info@armaturamedica.com level been like from students in these

Photo credit: (previous page) iStock/Adventure_Photo; (this page) iStock/grandriver

Educate » Inspire » Connect

The Spark: What’s the interest

There are plenty of

Photo credit: (previous page) iStock/ClaudioValdes; (this page) iStock/Esther Kelleter

Margaret Lancaster, co-founder and general manager and

it’s the first pharmacy in North America

In conversation with Philippe Lucas, vice-president of

Dr. Ian Sandler, CEO

On Grey Wolf’s backstory.

Keep Your Pets Safe

— Dr. Christina McRae, Humane Society of Durham Region veterinarian

As the desire to grow cannabis anywhere, in any environment,

What’s your backstory? nabis consumer as they grow in their

S ince the legalization of cannabis

Where do you see BRNT

and information being widely shared.

Florina Truica-Marasescu, co-founder and

Our plasma process was shown by

Geoffrey Benic, CEO

The original idea behind Aleafia Health

We’ve established a great reputation